A leading pollster has issued a stark warning to Chancellor Rachel Reeves, stating she is in the 'last-chance saloon' and is 'losing the room' with the British public ahead of Wednesday's critical Budget announcement.
Damning Polling Data Reveals Public Sentiment
The think-tank More In Common presented alarming data, indicating that the Labour government is running out of time to convince voters it is the right party to handle the nation's pressing challenges. Luke Tryl, the organisation's executive director, emphasised that Ms Reeves must find a way to keep the public 'on side' with tomorrow's fiscal plan.
The polling reveals that both the Chancellor and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have hit an all-time low in their net approval ratings. Sir Keir Starmer has plummeted to -51, while Ms Reeves is at -52.
Widespread Pessimism on Economy and Services
Public sentiment towards the country's overall situation is deeply negative. A significant 57 per cent of voters are unsure if the cost-of-living crisis will ever come to an end.
Furthermore, the data shows a sharp decline in confidence regarding public services and government finances since the last Budget:
- More than two thirds believe public services are in a bad state.
- 73 per cent think the Government's finances are in a poor condition.
- An equal 73 per cent hold a negative view of the British economy.
Mr Tryl summarised the high stakes, stating: 'There is a risk... that this could be a last-chance saloon moment for the Government. If you look across that data, [Reeves] is losing the room.'
A Pivotal Moment for the Government
This combination of record-low personal approval for its leaders and profound public pessimism on key issues creates a formidable challenge for the government. The upcoming Budget is now positioned as a pivotal test of its ability to regain public trust and demonstrate a credible path forward on the economy and the state of the nation's services.